Art is not always about a final piece but the search itself.

DEPARTMENT PHILOSOPHY

In preparation for
September 2018, and our first co-educational year 7, we have introduced
Textiles in to the Arts curriculum. Textiles has proven popular amongst
our boys this year. I am sure, with the arrival of girls in September,
the department will go from strength to strength

Art is
not always about a final piece but the search itself. The journey is as
important as the outcome. We believe to develop artistic growth students need
intellectual and practical balance; individually, in groups and as a whole
class. Presented with and guided through problem-solving situations that
challenge their perceptions; students are given opportunities to create and
discover. Art education is a perfect forum for addressing
learning styles today. The benefits for our students include better independent
learning management, problem-solving skills, critical-thinking skills, and a
cooperative learning environment.

KEY STAGE 3

At KS3 the course
consists of themes to cover 3D design & ceramics, drawing & painting,
textiles and printmaking & mixed media. It is our aim in giving students
the skills to understand the visual world and the ability to express themselves
in a wide variety of different materials with confidence and enthusiasm.
Drawing forms a large part of the course; because only by drawing from
observation can students develop a visual language through which to communicate
their ideas. We encourage students to make appropriate use of ICT and to
develop and be influenced through the study of designers/artists work taken
from a wide range of cultures.

Regular homework is
set which may involve researching visual and written information on artists and
their work. Students may be asked to complete drawing and sketching activities,
experiment with different materials and evaluate their work. Students may be
asked to evaluate their own and others’ work. Work is displayed in a variety of
venues around the school to celebrate the success of the student. Regular
assessment and monitoring by staff ensures progression through the Key Stage.

KEY STAGE 4

GCSE art students
follow the AQA Specification-

Full Course

Portfolio of work

Controlled
assessment
60% of the total marks
Marked out of 96

The portfolio should be selected from work undertaken during the course of
study and must include more than one project. For the Full
Course, it is recommended that the total portfolio
submission will comprise approximately 45 hours of work.

A response to all assessment objectives is required in the portfolio as a
whole.
Work presented is marked by the centre and moderated by AQA.

Externally-set task

External assessment
40% of the total marks
Marked out of 96
10 hours of sustained focused study

Students respond to their chosen starting point.
Question papers can be issued to students from 2 January in the year of the
exam.
Unlimited preparation time and 10 hours of supervised time.

A response to all assessment objectives is required.
Work presented is marked by the centre and moderated by AQA.

In Year 10, students will be
expected to produce two units of work, engaging with, analysing and reflecting
upon the artwork of artists, craftsmen and designers. They will use a
range of processes, techniques and media throughout their sketchbooks to
develop ideas, record observations and research artists. Students will
participate in a mock exam in Year 10. Pupils will be expected to produce
sketchbook work and preparatory work ready for the exam.

In Year 11 each student
will continue with their individual project, based on their level of skill and
capability to prepare their final portfolio before beginning their externally
set task in January of Year 11. Homework will be given throughout the course,
which will include research, sketchbook work and preparation work. This will
always be discussed with pupils on an individual basis.